Elan tests due by end of the summer

By the end of the year, Elan should have a clearer idea if its most prominent in-trial treatment for Alzheimer’s disease has a commercial future.

Initial Phase-3 test results on the bapineuzumab drug — which is being developed by Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer, but which is still 25%-owned by the Irish drugmaker — are expected before the end of the summer, with further detailed findings due in the fourth quarter.

Speaking after Elan’s AGM in Dublin yesterday, chairman Bob Ingram said it is unlikely the company will not have an idea of a “pathway” forward regarding its Alzheimer’s treatment by the end of this year.